T'was The Night Before Christmas

T'was the night before Christmas, in the Griffin household.

The rain had arrived and the weather was cold.

The Golden Gate Bridge was covered in fog,

And it was time for Loul to write a festive blog.

Earlier this month we enjoyed a very special day

In the city, with a mouse king and the Nutcracker Ballet.

Tomorrow via Skype we'll open stockings with the Brits

And then get all dressed up for a family day at the Ritz!

War Memorial Opera House, SF

No Boxing Day this year, so only one day off.

And imported Quality Street that we'll scoff.

Too much mulled wine (please don't tell),

and home made mince pies thanks to Crosse and Blackwell.

A Charles Dickens Festival a few weeks ago.

Americans trying to speak British lingo.

Some celtic dancing; bangers and mash that were foul,

But a sight made us smile - a Welsh Tea Towel!

Gifts were bought early and posted on time,

Except we forgot to pay VAT and incurred a fine.

Thank goodness for Amazon - and its global wish list,

It's currency converter and gift wrap service!

No Christmas in school, no class nativity.

It's "Happy Holidays!", and let the church thing be.

Shopping Malls filled with 'Frosty the Snowman' on repeat

And no public sign of Silent Night, Wise Men or sheep.

But last week at church, we saw a live nativity

Which was followed by carols, cupcakes and tea!

The same words in the carols, but different tunes for us Brits,

But it none the less got us in the Christmas Spirit!

Our Christmas tree has been decorated for more than a while,

And the cards you have all sent, each one has made us smile.

Watching the children open their advent calendar with cheer,

Yet it doesn't quite feel as Christmasy this year.

A party with British friends to get us in the mood,

Familiar accents, more wine and far too much food.

Friendships are stronger, with family being so far,

But at times like this, home is where your family are.

Another excellent party with the Bromfields

Conor, Aiden & Annie at the Bromfields's House

I love the idea that Father Christmas takes flight,

That he rides on his sleigh around the world in one night.

If it were true that he flew faster than emails,

Id be hopping on board and hitching a lift to Wales!

It's the night before Christmas; our first in the States.

And tonight we're toasting family, friends, neighbours and mates.

You're all in our hearts, despite being out of sight,

So "Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good-night!"

Merry Christmas

Dan & Loul. xxx